This document serves as a guide to help individuals understand the process of requesting and accessing information from STA under the Freedom of Information (FOI) policy, in line within the FOI Policies and standards published by NDMO-SDAIA and STA's commitment to transparency.

This policy applies to all requests for public information – unprotected – held by STA, regardless of source, format, or nature.

Certain information is excluded from this policy and cannot be accessed by individuals, including but not limited to:

1. Information that, if disclosed, would harm national security, governmental policy, or the rights of the state.
2. Military or security-related information.
3. Documents obtained through agreements with other countries that are classified as protected.
4. Information pertaining to inquiries, investigations, enforcement actions, or surveillance related to criminal activities or violations.
5. Information that includes recommendations or consultations about pending legislation or government decisions.
6. Commercial, financial, industrial, or economic information where disclosure could unfairly influence market behavior or result in financial harm.
7. Scientific or technological research and intellectual property that, if disclosed, could infringe upon the rights of the creators or owners.
8. Information related to competitive processes, such as bids or auctions, where disclosure would compromise fairness.
9. Any confidential or personal data protected by law, or information requiring specific legal procedures to access.

STA is committed to the following principles regarding freedom of information:

1. First Principle: Transparency
   Individuals have the right to access information related to the activities of public entities to foster transparency, integrity, and accountability.
2. Second Principle: Accountability and Reasonable Justification
   Any limitations on access to protected information must be justified clearly, explicitly, and in accordance with legal standards.
3. Third Principle: Public Information Disclosure
   Individuals have the right to access public information that is unprotected, without needing to demonstrate a particular interest or legal standing.
4. Fourth Principle: Equality
   All requests for access to information will be treated fairly and equally, without discrimination.

1. Individuals have the right to access public, unprotected information held by STA.
2. Individuals have the right to be informed of the reason if their request for access to information is denied.
3. Individuals have the right to appeal a decision to refuse access to information, with clear instructions on how to file an appeal.